Lack of photosensitising potential of tenidap, a novel anti‐rheumatic agent.

Abstract

1. The potential of orally administered tenidap sodium, a novel anti‐ rheumatic agent under investigation for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, to cause phototoxic reactions was investigated. 2. Twenty‐four healthy volunteers entered a randomised, double‐blind study in which they received tenidap sodium 40 mg or 120 mg or placebo daily for 7 days. The minimal erythema dose was determined using wavelengths of 305‐460 nm for 3 days prior to drug administration and on the last 3 days of dosing. Appropriate clinical and laboratory tests were performed before, during and after the dosing period. 3. Tenidap did not have a statistically significant effect on immediate or delayed photosensitivity. No drug‐related side effects were reported and there were no clinically significant adverse findings from the laboratory tests. 4. At the dosage and duration of tenidap sodium used, a photosensitising potential has not been demonstrated. 1995 The British Pharmacological Society